Mary Magdalene, the first witness to the Resurrection, is carrying spices to the tomb. Caught at the moment when she sees the stone has been rolled away; Jesus is no longer in the tomb; there is no need for the spices. Christ has risen .  

St. Mary Magdalene honors those who serve, the airline employees and passengers and the thousands of volunteers following 9/11/01 who offered their time and talents in the recovery effort following the fall of the twin towers.  Bronze, approximately five feet in height, resting on a four-foot pedestal.

The overall concept of the Catholic Memorial at Ground Zero was the inspiration of Father Kevin Madigan, then Pastor of St. Peter's Church who administered St. Joseph's Chapel.  The four sculptures by John Collier are now installed on the portico at St. Peter's Church, near Ground Zero in Manhattan.  The idea of the commemorative saints and the underlying theme of life coming from the seed that dies in the ground (John 12:24), incorporated in the baptismal font, altar and window behind the altar all came from Father Madigan's prayerful planning.  The concept was executed by design consultant, Lawrence Hoy of Renovata Studios.  

John Collier was chosen as the chief sculptor and created the patron saints of police, firefighters, and workers, plus a Mary Magdalene sculpture representing the Chapel theme, Resurrection, as she was the first witness to the Resurrection.  This sculpture is one of four by Collier to receive the coveted Optimé, the Award administered by Ministry and Liturgy magazine.